Cliffannie Forrester

Less than two weeks ago, twitter was all a buzz about emerging artist Cliffannie Forrester. The 18 year old Brooklyn native had accomplished what most artist could only dream of – her work featured at the MET. The High School of Art and Design senior submitted her oil painting titled “Uganda” for a scholarship competition. Her piece along with 89 other students is featured in the P.S. Art: Celebrating The Creative Spirit of New York City Kidsexhibition.

Forrester said the photo was inspired by a 2014 trip she and members of her church took to Uganda to aid those in need. She was on her way to service when she saw “a little girl who was just standing around, admiring everything”. She snapped a picture with her phone and was encouraged to turn it into a painting by her art teacher. Cliffannie tweeted:

WHO JUST COMPLETED THEIR LIFE GOAL AT AGE 18? ME. AS OF 6/14/16 MY PIECE IS IN THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART.

So naturally, I took a trip to the MET to see Uganda for myself and I must tell you, the painting is awe inspiring. The emotion she captured on the little girls face seemed to transport you to that very moment. A sense of comfort was there. Maybe it was that thing we refer to as #blackgirlmagic, maybe I felt connected being a young Black creative not so long ago, maybe Cliffannie Forrester is that good. As I stood there amongst the crowd, I realized all of it was true.

Uganda will be on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art until October 23, 2016

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Black Bravado is improving the state of Black people in America by creating a community that incites people to act. By showcasing Black excellence from all ages and walks of life, we are sending the message that there are many ways to be Black and many ways to be great.